Pakistan reaffirms diplomatic role as China praises Islamabad Talks on US-Iran Conflict

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Monday reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to diplomacy as he met Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, with both sides discussing recent developments following the Islamabad talks, the Foreign Ministry said.

In a post on X, the ministry noted that Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to promote dialogue, while Ambassador Jiang lauded Islamabad’s role in facilitating direct negotiations between the United States and Iran.

Both sides also reaffirmed the strength of the Pakistan–China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.

Separately, Dar chaired a meeting with Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch and senior foreign ministry officials, commending their efforts in organising the high-stakes Islamabad talks.

An official statement said Dar appreciated the team’s professionalism in facilitating dialogue between Washington and Tehran, calling it a key step toward constructive engagement and regional stability.

Senior officials from the United States and Iran had arrived in Islamabad on Saturday for negotiations following a six-week conflict that caused heavy casualties and strained the global economy.

Although the talks concluded without a formal agreement, Dar stressed the importance of maintaining the ceasefire, urging both sides to uphold their commitments.

Pakistan’s role as a mediator drew widespread appreciation. US Vice President JD Vance praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir as “incredible hosts,” noting Pakistan’s efforts to bridge differences.

US President Donald Trump also acknowledged Pakistan’s leadership in facilitating the talks, describing Sharif and Munir as “extraordinary men.”

The Iranian delegation similarly expressed gratitude, with senior officials, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei, thanking Pakistan for hosting and supporting the negotiations.

Despite the absence of a breakthrough, Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement has been widely recognised as a significant effort to promote peace and stability.